Memo to state colleges: focus on Mass. first

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I AGREE with the Globe editorial:
Westfield State University president Evan Dobelle’s lavish spending must be stopped (“Gourmet meals, just deserts,” Sept. 5). But I disagree strongly with the idea that Westfield State, or any other state college or university, must “attract a broader, more diverse student body — by appealing to international students . . . ”

These institutions should focus on giving Massachusetts students the highest quality education possible. Far too many college administrators spend too much time and money on institutional reputation and image, when they should be working day and night on improving graduation rates and preparing young people to face job-market challenges and to live happy and productive lives.